2019 Honda CR-V vs 2020 Toyota 4Runner

The 2019 Honda CR-V offered a straightforward selection process with four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. In Canada, all trims except the base model came standard with all-wheel drive, while the LX offered front-wheel drive as standard. Prices ranged from $27,690 to $39,090, excluding destination charges. The CR-V's design was generally appealing, with 17-inch aluminum wheels on the LX and 18-inch wheels on higher trims. The interior was noted for its quality materials and construction, providing a sense of value despite the presence of hard plastics. The CR-V's rear design was particularly upscale, although the front styling was less favored.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner maintained a timeless design with its tall slab sides, high beltline, and near-vertical front fascia, emphasizing a utilitarian attitude. The 4Runner's lineup in Canada was based on the SR5 trim with five packages, including TRD Off-Road and Limited. The Limited package, which we tested, focused on comfort with leather upholstery and an 8-inch touchscreen. Despite its chrome and leather, the 4Runner's utilitarian DNA was evident, with a seating position designed more for off-road capability than highway comfort. The 4Runner's design allowed for excellent off-road performance, with features like short overhangs and flared wheel wells accommodating off-road tires.

The 2019 Honda CR-V in Canada was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 179 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the CR-V offered both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. The engine was responsive and provided satisfying acceleration, though it had some issues in cold weather and with battery reliability. Fuel economy was rated at 8.0 L/100 km combined, but real-world testing averaged 10.2 L/100 km. The CR-V's driving dynamics were impressive, with a MacPherson strut front and multi-link double wishbone rear suspension, providing a composed ride and confident handling. The electric steering was light and effortless at low speeds, gaining heft as speed increased, and the braking system was reliable even under demanding conditions.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4-litre V6 engine with a five-speed automatic transmission, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed for a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms. The engine was not designed for efficiency, with fuel consumption rated at 14.8 L/100 km in the city and 13.8 combined. The 4Runner excelled off-road, with its body-on-frame construction and advanced traction systems like crawl control and Multi-Terrain Select. On-road, the 4Runner exhibited significant body roll and vague steering, making it less suited for highway driving. The part-time four-wheel drive system was capable off-road, while the full-time system on the Limited trim was better for maintaining traction.

The 2019 Honda CR-V provided ample interior space, though the lack of a height adjuster for the front passenger seat was a drawback. The driver enjoyed a 12-way power adjustable seat, and heated front seats were standard in Canada. The rear seats offered plenty of space for children and adults, with air vents and USB ports enhancing comfort. The CR-V excelled in cargo capacity, offering 1,110 litres behind the rear seats and 2,146 litres with the seats folded, accommodating large items with ease.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner offered excellent outward visibility and a relatively tight turning radius. The interior featured large, easy-to-use controls, though the steering-wheel buttons were not illuminated. The tall front seat position provided a commanding view, but entry and exit could be challenging without the power-retractable running boards. The 4Runner offered an optional third row, but these seats were best for short, occasional use due to limited legroom and comfort. The design prioritized off-road capability, with a focus on durability and practicality.

The 2019 Honda CR-V came equipped with a range of infotainment and driver-assistance features. The system included a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trims offered additional features like SiriusXM and a premium audio system. However, the infotainment system was criticized for its small screen size and lack of a tuning knob, and the voice activation system was not user-friendly.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner received an updated 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the system was an improvement, it still lagged behind competitors in terms of features and usability. The onboard navigation system was less efficient than smartphone alternatives, and the 4Runner offered limited USB connectivity. The focus remained on off-road technology, with advanced features integrated into the powertrain rather than the dashboard.

The 2019 Honda CR-V featured Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features standard on all trims except the base LX FWD. This included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The CR-V received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, though its headlight performance was rated as Acceptable.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. The 4Runner had eight standard airbags and received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with a three-star rating in the rollover test. The IIHS rated it Good in most crash tests, except for a Marginal score in the small overlap front: driver-side test. The adaptive cruise control worked well, but the lane-departure alert system was less effective due to the 4Runner's high centre of gravity and imprecise steering.